Rinse the gram dal well. Place in a pot and cover it with water. Boil on medium heat until the gram dal is soft and tender but still retaining it's shape. Cut brinjal into cubes and soak in some salted water and set aside.
Heat oil on low heat and add the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once the seeds burst add the, chillies, onion and curry leaf
Once onion turns slightly brown add the ginger/garlic paste and fry for a minute. Add the turmeric and masala and cook for a few seconds
Add the brinjal and allow it to cook until its a little tender.
Add the pureed or grated tomato and simmer on a low heat until brinjal is cooked
Add the gram dal, season with salt, cover and simmer on a low heat. Once it starts drying up add 1/2 cup of water (or less) and allow it to cook until the gravy thickens. Mix in the garam masala and turn off the heat.
Garnish with chopped coriander. Serve with Indian bread or Basmati Rice