Heat 1 tsp of oil and add in all the ingredients given for masala except cumin seeds. Roast it for couple of mins. Now take it in a blender and add in cumin seeds. Grind it to a coarse mix.
Now heat oil in a kadai. Add in all seasoning ingredients and saute for a min.
Add in tomatoes and cook for couple of mins till it turns mushy.
Add in salt, sugar and turmeric powder. Mix well.
Add in ground masala and saute for couple of mins.
Add in water, tamarind pulp and mix well. Bring this to a boil.
Add in cooked mashed dal and mix well. Bring this to boil once, once it reaches a boil point turn off the heat.