If someone is just starting, WhatsApp business now has a catalogue option too. Products can be uploaded there. Shopify is a good option for starting. You can also use Shopify to integrate the store to a FB page. It's quite good.
However, the eCommerce business in India is going to get some tighter regulations because of the sellers who don't ship product on time or deny returns. With Amazon, a customer thinks they are safe since Amazon is something everyone knows. I once brought an engraved pen from an online store, and it was not delivered. The company blamed it on courier service, and the courier service blamed it on the printing company. I was able to get it sorted out by lodging complaints on various portals.
"Every e-commerce entity shall establish an adequate grievance redressal mechanism having regard to the number of grievances ordinarily received by such entity from India, and shall appoint a grievance officer for consumer grievance redressal, and shall display the name, contact details, and designation of such officer on its platform," the notification stated."
Consumer protection norms for e-commerce companies notified
Even if bulk shipping rates are negotiated with a logistics provider, you will have to spend money on digital marketing of your website. However, its an investment that will bear fruits in the longer run. I do have some experience in this arena, and it takes around a year or a year and a half to get the products indexed in google search, for results on the first page.
Unless, you are looking to sell a niche product, like, " red collar for labrador dog", it takes time and patience to sell on own platform. However, people have done it, and they have done well.
There are companies like
Doggie Dabbas | Meow Chow | Dog Food & Treats | Cat Treats
Who sell on amazon as well as on a standalone website.
Amazon.in
Amazon does give you exposure.
Key is to keep trying both the avenues and then obtain a mix which works for you.
Don't want to invest in an eCommerce platform, use
Create & Manage Your Online Store for Free | CCAvenue Storefront
Have a look at the demo; you don't have to worry about integrating a payment gateway in your website.
Whatever you are thinking to do, start it.
Because the only regret that you will have when you start making decent sales, is, " why didn't I started sooner?"
I have been on that road, and sooner you start, it's better for you.
Godspeed.