1) Is there a separate entity 'self', 'me' 'I', at all, anywhere, in any way, shape or form? Was there ever?

There is no separate 'self', 'me', or 'I' in any way, shape, or form. There was never more than a formless idea of a self.

2) Explain in detail what the illusion of separate self is ...

LU is focused guiding for seeing there is no real, inherent 'self' - what do you understand by this?
Self is just a concept. It is empty

What are you looking for at LU?
To learn how to guide effectively. To examine pointers and take note of what seems effective. To read threads and witness ...