Good beginner's selesction of spices

Hi folks, long time no speak to. <waves> 

I think I asked something similar a little while back, but my
cold-addled brain isn't remembering too well today, so I'll ask again.

The OH is becoming something of a cook and wants to start on Indian
dishes - I currently have a poor selection of spices in the house.
What sorts of things would be good to have around when buying fresh,
and what sort of realistic cupboard lifespan do they have? Can anyone
recommend some beginner-level tasty recipes for a household that tends
to eat lots of beef and plum tomatoes in various combinations? Also,
if anyone would care to share a good naan recipe he'd be delighted.