Combine 4½ cups of water, bay leaf, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, rice and salt in a deep non-stick pan, mix well and cover with a lid and cook on a medium flame for 10 minutes or till the rice is cooked.Strain the rice using a strainer and keep aside.
Heat the oil in a non-stick kadhai and add the cumin seeds.When the seeds crackle, add the onions and saute on a medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes or till the onions turn translucent.
Add the ginger-green chilli paste, turmeric powder, coriander powder, chilli powder and garam masala and saute on a medium flame for a few seconds.Add the tomatoes and 2 tbsp of water, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 4 to 5 minutes.
Add the mixed boiled vegetables, paneer, salt and milk, mix well and cook on a medium flame for another 2 to 3 minutes, while stirring occasionally.Add the sugar, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 1 more minute.
Combine the curds, coriander and saffron colour in a bowl and mix well.Add the prepared rice, mix well and divide into 2 equal portions.
Put a portion of the rice in a handi/vessel and spread it evenly with the back of a spoon.Add the prepared vegetable gravy on it and spread it evenly now.Top it with the 2nd portion of the rice and spread it evenly.Lastly spread a layer of fried onion.
Pour the ghee evenly over it and cover it with a lid.Place the handi on a non-stick tava (griddle) and cook on a slow flame for 25 to 30 minutes.
Garnish with fried onion and serve hot with raita.
