Wash and soak the split yellow gram and rice together for 15 minutes. Drain. Heat the water in a vessel till very hot. Keep aside. Heat the ghee (clarified butter) in a large heavy bottomed vessel till it is very hot. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Now add the chopped ginger, green chilli(es), cinnamon, peppercorns, asafoetida and turmeric powder. Stir fry on medium / low level for about 2 minute(s). Now, add the split yellow gram, rice and salt. Mix well. Add the hot water to this and bring to a boil. Cover and keep on low heat for 25 minutes or till the mixture is slightly mushy.