I now live in Ōtepoti Dunedin, Aotearoa New Zealand (after many years in Auckland, hence the URL). I am a Brit married to a Kiwi. We have two children, one studying environmental science, and the other a PhD in mathematics, both at the University of Auckland. I used to be a software developer (I'm mainly responsible for the code that animates Mr. Bean and Peppa Pig.)

Māyā (Sanskrit माया), literally means "illusion" and "magic". However, the term has multiple meanings depending on the context ... in later Vedic texts and modern literature dedicated to Indian traditions, Māyā connotes a "magic show, an illusion where things appear to be present but are not what they seem" (From Wikipedia).

Why do I do it? (Apart from the fame and riches, you mean? Which are due any day now...)

In my opinion, compiling cryptic crosswords is stand-up comedy for introverts. If I can get a laugh (or groan) when someone solves a clue, I feel my work has been worthwhile.