If you're pressed for time or are multitasking, you could save a step by combining all the ingredients together and then bring it to a boil. Separating the steps gives the oils in the spices more time to be released in the water and absorbed into the rice. If you don't have one or more of the spices, just leave it out. It'll still turn out great!
Keyword basmati rice, Easy, indian, saffron